Envisioning an alternative: a Pentecostal Charismatic movement and everyday life in postcolonial Zimbabwe

Abstract

ABSTRACT The fragility of the postcolonial Zimbabwean state and concomitant failed governance has opened crevices through which alternative forms of self-organising and social formation are emerging. In the face of state-inspired uncertainties One God Ministry (OGM) members have organised themselves along religious lines to strengthen their livelihoods and wellbeing. This article draws on the findings of an ethnographic study of members of an anonymised Pentecostal Charismatic Christian movement (PCC) that self-organised to push for the attainment of economic democracy through provision of decent housing and income-generating activities for its members. It argues that OGM is filling the void left by the weakening postcolonial state. The Pentecostal movement’s success is derived from its ability to proffer pragmatic solutions to structural challenges that members face. Furthermore, OGM builds its solutions around diversity in membership, transnational relations, and followers’ hopes and aspirations.